FDA Recalls China-Made Toothpaste

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the nationwide recall of China-made Shir Fresh Mint Fluoride Toothpaste.

The FDA said Gold City Enterprise LLC of Hallandale, Fla., initiated the voluntary recall because of possible contamination.

The recalled products have UPC codes 859750001023, 859750001016, 859750001092 or 859750001115, and involve Lots Nos. 777A, 777B, 777C, 777D, 2471A or 2471B. The products were sold in 9 oz. and 6.4 oz. sizes.

The FDA said the toothpaste might contain the poisonous chemical diethylene glycol, which is used in antifreeze and as a solvent. The chemical is a central nervous system depressant and potent kidney and liver toxin.

Consumers are advised to either discard or return the products to the place of purchase.

The FDA this month issued an import alert, warning consumers to stop using toothpaste made in China because of such contamination.

That warning included toothpaste brands: Cooldent Fluoride, Cooldent Spearmint, Cooldent ICE, Dr. Cool Everfresh, Superdent, Clean Rite, Oralmax Extreme, Otal Bright Fresh Spearmint Flavor, Bright Max Peppermint Flavor, Shir Fresh Mint Fluoride Paste, DentaPro, DentaKleen and DentaKleen Junior.